Santa Maria de la Scala

City of
Catania

Sicily‚s second-largest city rocks – sometimes, quite literally thanks to its seismic history and proximity to the smoking volcano Etna. Centuries of classic treasures and design are on display in its old town.

Karine Bloem

A visit to this part of Sicily is not complete without visiting one of the typical coastal villages/fishing ports. Santa Maria de la Scala is one of them, and not as touristy as Toarmina or Syracuse, but famous for the tiny family owned bar La Timpa, where they serve the best almond granita (shaved ice) in the area. If you’re a fan of the Dutch ‘amandelspijs’ you are going to love it, as it is the same flavour and texture but in an iced version.

This is also the village where ‘Crossing The Rock’ is located; a full-service villa offered for rent to accommodate up to 9 people. It is a 600 square meters property with an amazing garden, wood paved terrace, swimming pool overlooking the sea as far as the Aeolian islands, a barbecue area, well …the works.

Other assets of this charming village are the restaurants that offer low-key fish- and seafood suppers.